Here’s our handy pick of what’s happening in music in Manchester over the next couple of weeks. Every Tuesday we guide you straight to the shows we know you won’t want to miss.

The son of a Beatle, the finest selection of beards the music world has to offer, and the Manchester music legend that is Mark E Smith - this week’s rundown is nothing if not eclectic. If you don’t find something you’d sell your arm for a ticket to, then you just don’t like music and we can’t help you.

To search details of hundreds of gigs and events at venues all around Greater Manchester, head over to our listings page.

GIG / JENNY LEWIS

Massive ticket demand has forced Jenny Lewis – the former Rilo Kiley frontwoman-turned-solo artist – to upgrade this week’s Manchester visit from the Ruby Lounge to The Ritz. It’s not hard to see why. She’s one of the most enchanting songstresses around, and her latest album, The Voyager – a Fleetwood Mac-tinged pop-rock masterpiece – should figure highly in those Best Album lists come the end of the year.

GIG / THE MAGIC NUMBERS

A decade on from their arrival, The Magic Numbers may no longer be troubling the charts, but they remain one of Britain’s most underestimated pop combos. They’re back with a new album, Alias, so prepare to fall in love all over again with their sweet harmonies, uplifting melodies and all-round cheery dispositions.

Manchester Academy 2 / 0161 275 2930 / Friday September 12, 7pm / £15

FESTIVAL / SALFORD MUSIC FESTIVAL

(Image: Joel Goodman)

Another year, another chance for the city of Salford to showcase its glorious musical pedigree. This year’s event promises an impressive 200 bands across 17 venues, with a headline performance from Mark E Smith’s The Fall. We'll have more in a fortnight – including an exclusive chat with the maverick Manchester frontman.

Various venues, Salford / Thursday September 25 to Sunday September 28. To book tickets click here.

GIG / THE GHOST OF A SABER TOOTH TIGER

A new band formed by a model and the son of a Beatle – they must be a bit of a joke, right? Far from it: this fine American duo, comprising Sean Lennon and Charlotte Kemp Muhl – serve up a disarmingly lovely kind of psych-folky pop that calls upon the sounds of Beck and the Flaming Lips. Catch them on Monday, September 8, in their Manchester debut.

ALBUM NEWS / JO ROSE

CityLife favourite Jo Rose has finally got round to releasing a debut album. It’s called Spurs and it’s an absolute belter, loaded with the tear-stained Americana loveliness that has become his trademark. Once you’ve downloaded it (from iTunes), don’t miss his free show at Chorlton’s Mono on Saturday September 13.